Like Fixer Upper by HTGV, home remodeling and improvement shows are fun to watch. Not only are they great entertainment, but they inspire when it comes to improving your own home. One episode will leave you with many design ideas and the determination to get started on your project.
Although it is motivating to see a house transform in less than an hour, these shows have a downside. Since the directors carefully craft each episode, they do not convey what’s happening behind the scenes. As a result, viewers formulate various misconceptions and unrealistic expectations when approaching their project. After watching countless hours of HGVT, here are our top misconceptions that they perpetuate.
Misconception #1
The Home Remodeling Process Is Quick
It is inspiring to watch a home get renovated while lounging on your couch. In many episodes, you witness a house go from run-down to a masterpiece in thirty minutes. Because of this, HGTV communicates remodeling projects are fast and easy. As a result, viewers walk away believing they too can accomplish a stunning makeover in a matter of weeks.
The Truth
HGTV shows create unrealistic expectations when it comes to the timeframe. In reality, they spend months, if not years, planning for each episode. These preparations include the architect laboring over the plans and materials long before turning on the cameras.
Recommendation
Homeowners need to understand that quality renovations take extensive patience. If you do not have the time, you should stick to cosmetic upgrades like painting your walls, replacing the flooring, and adding new fixtures or appliances. Otherwise, plan on your project taking significantly longer than what you see on TV.
Misconception #2
House Renovations Are Inexpensive.
In many episodes, the stars make a series of small cost-saving moves to keep the renovation under budget. For instance, one has a woman recycling items found in the house to save money. And another has a designer choosing cheaper tiles so their client can afford the expensive countertop. By doing this, HGTV continually reinforces the idea that transformative renovations can be a cheap endeavor.
The Truth
Remodeling shows are not transparent about their costs. Each project has a massive budget and resources, which they do calculate into the final price. In the end, quality home remodeling requires a solid budget. Unless you are strictly doing a makeover, have realistic expectations before starting a project.
Recommendation
If you have a small budget, we recommend the following. First, you should simplify the scope of your project. Try narrowing your renovation to one or two rooms, and see how you can best improve them. Second, stick to cosmetic upgrades as much as possible. When your project involves adding new spaces or reconfiguring present ones, the cost will significantly rise.
Misconception #3
Remodeling Is Fun and Stress-free.
Every HGTV show introduces some level of tension, but the overall process is relatively stress-free. In many cases, significant disruptions get shrugged off as bumps in the road. Supply delays get resolved in a matter of minutes. Budget issues get a roll of the eye or a heavy sigh, but never a tantrum, breakdown, or sleepless night. If only that were real life!
The Truth
Remodeling your home will increase stress and disrupt your life: First, you will face countless decisions like choosing fixtures and their styles. Second, you will have workers coming in and out of your home, making noise every day. And third, you could be without a full kitchen or other living spaces for many months.
Recommendation
First, we recommend striving for excellence, not perfection. Perfection is impossible to achieve and can cause one to lose perspective. Second, you should find a team that can collaborate well with you. If you are a hands-on person who wants to manage your renovation, we recommend a general contractor. However, if you have little time and prefer a team that can handle every component of your project, then a design-build firm would be a good route.
Misconception #4
Longevity Is Not Part of the Decision-Making
In the last three minutes of the show, a camera pans around the newly renovated home. It all looks great, but some of those amazing-looking fixtures will not last the year. HGTV and other home improvement shows emphasize how things look rather than their quality or how long they will last.
The Truth
It is essential to choose quality fixtures when building or renovating your home. By doing this, your improvements will last and perform well over many, many years.
Recommendation
Extensive research or speaking with a professional can help determine stylish products built to last. Also, we recommend visiting one of your local appliance and hardware showrooms. Read about the Best Kitchen and Bath Showrooms in Greater Boston.
Conclusion
Even though there is much entertainment value to house renovation shows, please do not be fooled. From the timeframe, budget and process, these shows do not accurately represent home remodeling projects. As a result, it is best to use this type of TV for inspiration. We recommend speaking with your design-build company or general contractor about your upcoming project to set realistic expectations.